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In its seventh year, the Cross Mountain Crusher drew 160 cyclists to the Catskill Recreation Center. The Crusher is the Catskills’ version of a “gravel grinder,” an event focusing on unpaved roads and maybe some “off-road” challenges. Paved roads might also be part of the course, usually by necessity. The Crusher includes all the above.
A gravel bike is the device of choice. It’s essentially a beefy road bike that can accommodate wider rims and tires and take the pounding. Mountain bikes are also ridden, although the additional weight will need to be brought up some 5000’ feet of elevation gain over the 55-mile course.
Commuting to the event over Margaretville Mountain, I had the inside line on the weather forecast. With bright sun at the higher elevations and fog presiding in the valleys, you could tell it was destined to be a great day. I tried to communicate this to some of the gathering cyclists, but they were too busy shivering. The choice of clothing ranges between committing to shed layers during the ride or wearing just the right amount for conditions that will arrive in hour or so (and being very cold until that time).
Though it’s not a race, the front group sped out of the lot with an aggressive pace that typifies the “competitive recreation” mindset that thrives in these settings. Whizzing down Route 30 toward Margaretville, I first think of how skinnier tires would help me go even faster – and then of how these same tires could easily spell doom in the cobbly conditions to come. But I’m in like company, with most riders running 32mm tires and up.
Crossing the Delaware River’s East Branch at Fair Street we enter the Catskill Park and square up to face the flanks of Dry Brook Ridge. The stout climb up to Southside is short-lived but hints at what’s to come. The route then skirts the mountain, rambling along aside the Pepacton Reservoir. As with so many routes in the Western Catskills, the dirt-road enthusiast will first need to ride some pavement to enter gravel habitat. Today, the sound of gravel under our collective wheels occurs at 8.6 miles with a left onto Jim Alton Road, where the main event really begins.
With the fine weather kicking in, riders may’ve noticed the gap in the distant ridge through which Cross Mountain Road passes into the Beaverkill Valley. Chances are though, they’re captivated by the beauty of the lower Millbrook Valley, as we pounce up a couple of bumpy hills. And whether you realize you’ll be riding your bike through that pass; the fact is, in order to do so, you’ve got about 1200’ of climbing in 2.5 miles with an average gradient of 9%.
You’re going to feel better if you’ve done some honest work in preparation for this climb (and the rest of the ride). Yet, if you’re able, can find the time, and ride in some of your favorite places, it really isn’t work at all, but rather an enjoyable routine that supports your arrival at this event. For cyclists who live in the area, we are so fortunate to have these amazing places to ride – they inspire our preparation. And for cyclists who live beyond the Catskills, they’re happy to make the trip and ride in these mountains.
The descent of Cross Mountain brings a sense of accomplishment, since the largest climb has been tackled. And the scenic flight along Alder Lake Road is a privilege to experience on this magnificent autumn day. The next thing you know, you’re winding up Shin Creek Road and a stunning view opens back to the Cross Mountain gap. Just amazing. The upper section of this road is only seasonally maintained, and parts of the descent really call upon one’s bike handling skills. The sustained and winding pitch down to Lew Beach is exhilarating. All this momentum carries right through the brief flat into the third of five climbs on the day.
Mary Smith Road is another classic Catskills stretch. The constant unfolding of scenes in the landscape will charge your ability to climb with your bike. Curling down the forest road on other side, the liminal condition of riding in the mountains should now be in full swing. Crossing the stream and again turning uphill, the chunky Beech Hill climb could be daunting, but you wouldn’t have it any other way. This is what the place is about; another 900 feet up in 2.6 miles – followed by, of course, another thrilling downhill.
After rolling the high-quality surface alongside the Beaverkill, the last climb should be more of a formality than an obstacle. Having a refreshment table at Big Pond certainly helps. Again, we are reminded of the many volunteers that help make this event successful. Volunteers include firefighters from five districts who keep watch over key intersections in support of our safety.
From Big Pond, you’re going to want to have company to share the “pulling” on the 17-mile run-in to CRC.
The scene back at CRC is celebratory, filled with high-five attitudes and cheering as riders keep rolling in. Expressions of appreciation from riders reinforce the growing enthusiasm for the course. A banner of all the event supporters hangs next to the Overlook Bicycle tent, as cyclists line up for food and beverage, brought to you by the Phoenicia Diner and Catskill Brewery.
Thanks to all those who make the Crusher possible. Special gratitude goes to the late Kingdon Gould Jr. who envisioned and brought the CRC into being. It’s hard to believe it’s been more than eight years since an old farm was transformed into a first-class recreation facility. How lucky we are. Here, the spirit of community thrives, and teamwork turns visions into reality. And all this against the backdrop of the mountains we respect for also helping to make this a great day.
* The 2022 Cross Mountain Crusher was held Saturday, October 15. In 2023 the event will be held Saturday, October 14. For more information visit crossmountaincrusher.com
Peter Manning is the executive director of the Catskill Mountain Club. To learn about CMC events, membership, and projects visit catskillmountainclub.org.
